Evolution of Plant and Fungal Diversity

Eukaryotic Organisms

Organisms with complex cells, including plants and fungi, which have membrane-bound nuclei.

Mycorrhizae

Symbiotic associations between fungi and plant roots that enhance nutrient exchange.

Xylem

The vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots.

Phloem

The vascular tissue that distributes sugars produced in leaves to other parts of the plant.

Sporophyte

The diploid phase in the plant life cycle that produces haploid spores.

Gametophyte

The haploid phase in the plant life cycle that produces gametes through mitosis.

Gymnosperms

Seed plants that produce 'naked' seeds not enclosed in chambers, such as conifers.

Angiosperms

Flowering plants that produce seeds within fruits, aiding in seed dispersal.

Chitin

A structure found in fungal cell walls, which is different from cellulose found in plant cell walls.

Nitrogen Fixation

The process by which nitrogen-fixing bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms for plants.